Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared Thursday, Sept. 10, “Charlie Kirk Day” to mark one year since the conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University.

“One year ago today, Charlie Kirk came to Utah to take part in a fundamental American tradition: speak openly, debate ideas, and persuade others,” Cox wrote on X. “Today, we honor Charlie's memory by choosing a politics worthy of our country, one where we stand firmly for what we believe and reject violence.”

Kirk, 31, was shot on Sept. 10, 2025, while addressing a crowd of more than 3,000 people at the university. He was taken to a hospital and later died from his injuries.

Authorities arrested Tyler Robinson, who turned himself in the following day. Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder and other offenses and pleaded not guilty. A Utah judge ruled Sept. 1 that the case can proceed to trial, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty.

Cox’s proclamation focuses on Kirk’s role in public political debate while calling for a rejection of violence and political polarization. It states that moments of tragedy should lead Americans to respond with “courage, empathy and a shared sense of purpose.”

The proclamation also says civic participation requires “an active rejection of political violence and polarization” and encourages Utahns to listen, learn, and engage with people across ideological differences.

Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and built the organization into a national political organization focused on young conservatives. He also became a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump and was involved in efforts to mobilize young voters.

The anniversary was also being marked at Utah Valley University. The university closed Thursday for a day focused on healing, service, and connection, while Turning Point USA planned a memorial at the UCCU Center. A university committee is also working on a permanent memorial to Kirk.

“On September 10, the anniversary of the tragic assassination on the campus of Utah Valley University, the state of Utah pauses to honor the memory of Charlie Kirk,” Cox’s proclamation states.

The proclamation concludes by calling on Utahns to strengthen their communities and preserve free expression while rejecting political violence.